SIEM REAP PRAHOK EARNS GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION STATUS: A TRADITION-DRIVEN ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

The event was presided over by H.E. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce and Chairperson of the National Committee for Intellectual Property (NCIP), alongside H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation; H.E. Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; and H.E. Igor Driesmans, the EU Ambassador to Cambodia. Distinguished representatives from international development partners, the private sector, academia, civil society, and university students also joined the event. A special highlight was the message from Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, celebrating this significant occasion. 

H.E. Cham Nimul underscored the Ministry’s pivotal role in advancing Cambodia’s Geographical Indication (GI) system as a tool for sustainable trade and rural development. She remarked, "The official recognition of Siem Reap Prahok as a GI product reflects our continued efforts to protect and promote Cambodia’s unique cultural assets through a strong intellectual property framework. This milestone not only safeguards traditional knowledge but also enhances the marketability and competitiveness of local products at both national and international levels. The Ministry of Commerce remains committed to strengthening the GI system as a strategic instrument for inclusive economic growth and value-added trade."

The EU emphasizes the importance of GIs for rural development and economic empowerment. H.E. Igor Driesmans stated, "GIs are powerful tools for empowering smallholder producers, preserving traditions, and promoting responsible resource management, thus contributing to sustainable development." He added, "GIs play a vital role in Europe, with over 3,500 registered, and the EU has supported the development of Cambodia's GI system for over a decade by providing capacity building and technical assistance. The EU's efforts focus on sustainable fisheries value chains and quality standards, fostering innovation to enhance the economic and cultural value of local products."

Siem Reap Prahok joins other iconic Cambodian products like Kampot pepper, Kampong Speu palm sugar, and Mondulkiri wild honey, underscoring the country's commitment to enhancing product identity and supporting rural livelihoods. H.E. Dith Tina noted that "Siem Reap Prahok symbolizes the linkage between our traditions and sustainable development, ensuring quality for consumers and bolstering the competitiveness of Cambodia's agricultural sector."

As a newly recognized GI product, Siem Reap Prahok not only fosters economic growth but also protects traditional practices and the environment. H.E. Dith Tina emphasized the agricultural sector is crucial to Cambodia, stating, "The Ministry is committed to strengthening this sector by improving value chains, promoting sustainable practices and resilience, in alignment with the Royal Government's Pentagon Strategy Phase1 and the National Agricultural Development Policy 2022-2030." This commitment enhances market opportunities for producers while ensuring consumers receive quality and authentic products.

Siem Reap Prahok is a vibrant celebration of Cambodia's culinary traditions, deeply rooted in the history of the Angkor Empire, where local ingredients and flavors were cherished. With its GI status, Siem Reap Prahok will strengthen the livelihoods of local producers while enhancing Cambodia's visibility in the global market, allowing the world to appreciate its rich culinary heritage.